On the money

One of the best ways to increase the market value of a home is either to make structural improvements or add new features, such as an outdoor deck or extra room.

If you’re looking to pump up the price of your home, you may want to first visit one of the following locations:

Better Business Bureau at www.bbb.org/library/home-imp.asp. It offers advice on home improvement planning, contracting and financing.

411 Home Repair at www.411homerepair.com. Users can select “Improvement Home” to access resources, calculators and how-tos.

Federal Consumer Information Center at www.pueblo. gsa.gov/cictext/housing/home-improve/homimprv.htm. It provides insights on home maintenance, hiring help and financing repairs.

Homestore.com at www.homestore.com/HomeGarden/HomeImprovement/. The site contains advice on a wide range of topics.

ImproveNet at www.improvenet.com. It features free contractor estimate finder and a variety of resources.